HONG KONG - Hong Kong's iconic Victoria Harbor was alive with energy on Tuesday night as hundreds of thousands gathered to celebrate the New Year, with the iconic skyline providing a breathtaking backdrop for a fireworks display that has become a beloved tradition in the city.

Over 400,000 spectators watched the fireworks display which lasted for 12 minutes, said an interdepartmental working group on festival arrangements of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region government.

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A total of 156,000 visitors arrived in Hong Kong on New Year's Eve through various sea, land and air control points. Among them, visitors from the Chinese mainland accounted for about 120,000, representing 77 percent of the total arrivals.

Dane Cheng, executive director of the Hong Kong Tourism Board, highlighted the significance of the New Year countdown fireworks show, noting its ability to attract countless spectators each year, adding that this year's display promised innovative effects that complemented the stunning harbor views, aiming to create an unforgettable experience.

Before the midnight countdown, the atmosphere was electric with live performances from various singers on the observation deck. The crowd was enthusiastic, waving mobile phone flashlights in sync with the music and donning glowing accessories that sparkled like stars.

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As the clock ticked down to midnight, a giant countdown clock illuminated the glass curtain wall of the Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition Center. At the stroke of midnight, the screen flashed "2025," prompting cheers, hugs, and heartfelt wishes among the spectators.

Following the countdown, the sky erupted in a colorful display of fireworks, synchronized with a unique blend of electronic, Western classical, and Chinese music. The spectacle unfolded in vibrant chapters, symbolizing hope and prosperity for the upcoming year.

Among the celebrants was Ms. Chiang, a local resident who captured the moment with her family. She expressed her hopes for the new year, saying, "May all wishes come true. I hope the new year brings smooth sailing and that the 'Pearl of the Orient' shines even brighter."

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To ensure the smooth flow of travelers, the HKSAR government and relevant departments of Guangdong province and Shenzhen municipality also implemented two special boundary-crossing arrangements, including extending the passenger clearance service at the Lo Wu Control Point to 2 am on New Year's Day and the passenger and passenger vehicle clearance services at the Shenzhen Bay Control Point.

From midnight to 6:30 am Wednesday, around 25,000 mainland visitors departed Hong Kong via land boundary control points. Among them, 6,784 left through Shenzhen Bay Control Point, 8,946 through Lok Ma Chau Control Point, and 7,722 departed through Lo Wu Control Point.